AUDI A3 (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 54,110 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
54,110
Avg Mileage
49,870 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,400
Is the 2018 AUDI A3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%.
At 6 years old, 92% of AUDI A3s from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 54,110 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 49,870 miles.
How does the 2018 AUDI A3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 AUDI A3 has 49,870 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI A3?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2018 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2018 AUDI A3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI A3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 547 | 26,069 mi |
| 2020 | 93% | 10,059 | 34,019 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 41,215 | 42,207 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 54,110 | 49,870 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 68,023 | 59,583 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 75,823 | 68,522 mi |
| 2015 | 88% | 80,797 | 78,897 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 77,639 | 89,137 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 55,981 | 99,882 mi |
| 2012 | 80% | 52,278 | 108,680 mi |
| 2011 | 79% | 44,226 | 116,751 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 50,328 | 117,064 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 46,405 | 123,921 mi |
| 2008 | 76% | 39,032 | 129,049 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 30,361 | 136,508 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 24,088 | 138,100 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 15,865 | 139,734 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 7,027 | 137,597 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 3,274 | 137,992 mi |
| 2002 | 72% | 2,361 | 141,296 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 1,685 | 130,310 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 1,019 | 128,899 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 888 | 127,410 mi |
| 1998 | 70% | 872 | 125,923 mi |
| 1997 | 68% | 385 | 128,771 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2018 AUDI A3
The 2018 AUDI A3 is a premium with a 999cc petrol engine. 54,110 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 49,870 miles at 6 years old, AUDI A3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 AUDI A3 Fuel Costs
The modest 999cc petrol engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a premium. Expect around 50 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £955 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2018 AUDI A3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,400 (£117/month), broken down as £955 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
AUDI A3 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2018 AUDI A3
At 6 years old, the AUDI A3 offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 94%. With 54,110 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2018 AUDI A3
The AUDI A3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2016) 81% pass rate (-11%) from 205,128 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2016) 81% pass rate (-11%) from 133,045 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2017) 86% pass rate (-6%) from 100,176 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2016) 85% pass rate (-7%) from 92,988 tests